You’ll be wanting more of this top musical

Oliver! is to be performed by Marlpool URC Theatre Company from October 20-24.
Jude Evans as Oliver

Marlpool URC Theatre Company's production of OliverJude Evans as Oliver

Marlpool URC Theatre Company's production of Oliver
Jude Evans as Oliver Marlpool URC Theatre Company's production of Oliver

The venue is Marlpool United Reformed Church Community Hall and performances begin at 7.15pm nightly.

For its latest production, Marlpool URC Theatre Company members have ignored the immortal advice of WC Fields to ‘never work with children or animals’ and have embraced both for their upcoming musical Oliver!

With a cast of 14 talented youngsters and one enthusiastic dog, they will bring the magic of Victorian England to life through Lionel Bart’s timeless classic.

The musical is sure to delight theatregoers of all ages with a whole host of unforgettable songs; Food, Glorious Food, Consider Yourself, Pick A Pocket, I’d Do Anything, the list goes on and on.

Based upon Charles Dickens’s novel Oliver Twist, the story follows the adventures of a young workhouse orphan who is sold to an undertaker before escaping to London.

There he is befriended by the Artful Dodger and introduced to the unscrupulous Fagin and his gang of pickpockets.

Nine-year-old Jude Evans will be making his stage debut in the title role, accompanied by Thomas Bailey as the Artful Dodger, Korina Steed as Nancy, Simon Owen as Fagin and Brett Waller as Mr Bumble.

The crew is led by producer and musical director Alison Bailey.

“This show has been a real pleasure to put together,” said Alison. “The children have been fantastic and really looking forward to opening night. They’ve particularly loved rehearsing with Connie, the little rescue dog who is playing Bullseye.

“Also, for this production, we’ve teamed up with the students of a Derby College course in stage make-up for some special assistance. The children and male members of the cast in particular need various help in looking like authentic Victorians, so the help they will be giving us during show week will be invaluable.”

Pupils of the Advanced Diploma in Theatrical, Special Effects, Hair & Media Make-up have jumped at the chance to bring their artistic expertise to the Marlpool dressing rooms as part of their commitment to complete voluntary work experience as part of the programme.

Some tickets are still available from the box office on 01332 986082, priced at £8.

Photo credit:  Jude Evans as Oliver in Marlpool URC Theatre Company’s production of Oliver!

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